Panzer has never had any qualms about snatching a bone, ball, toy, stick, or his favorite treat – an ice cube – away from his larger and more mature housemates. He doesn’t even respect his mother Vega’s possessions, although she is apt to firmly remind him of his place in the pecking order. Panzer, however, is not deterred.
He enjoys picking a friendly fight and instigating wild wrestling matches. He bulldozes his way out the door ahead of the other two dogs whenever possible. He also waits when Reacher is the only one outside and is poised to pounce when his Boxer buddy tries to come back into the house. And Panzer loves to chase both Reacher and Vega through the house or around the yard, depending where they all are.
On walks, he barks at other dogs and owners alike as if announcing, “I’m Panzer. You better watch out!”
That’s why I was apprehensive when my son suggested we take him to the dog park with Reacher. Reacher loves to run and chase while he’s there, but he’s a very friendly sort. While Reacher would never have a chance of taking top honors in the confirmation ring at Westminster, I am certain he would receive the "Mr. Congeniality" award. Panzer on the other hand, maybe “Biggest Bully.” Or so I imagined.
At the park, Panzer was a different dog. He was leery of the other dogs and was only willing to play with Reacher. But Reacher was in his element and had places to go as well as people and other dogs to see. If only dogs could talk, I’m sure Reacher would have told Panzer “Buzz off, little man. This is my turf."
Panzer, usually an avid ball-chaser, would chase the tennis ball only if no other dog appeared interested. As the ball sailed through the air, Panzer looked around and backed off if any dog -- big or small -- even glanced in the ball’s direction.
He was more than happy to trot back to my side, just sit and watch the action all around. If I could only take that Panzer back home.
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